An old variety that has stood the test of time and is still deservedly popular. Brilliant for adding early colour (although February may be a little bit of a push unless we have a very mild winter!), these small, cheery flowers should be planted in big clumps for maximum impact. They also do really well in pots and windowboxes.

Garden care: Wearing gloves plant bulbs 10cm deep and 10cm apart in autumn. After flowering feed with a balanced fertiliser, dead-head the flowers, but do not be tempted to cut back or tidy the foliage after flowering as this will interfere with the bulbs ability to store energy for the following year's flowers.